As 2025 unfolds, audiences around the world continue to admire and celebrate a remarkable group of artists whose careers stretch across nearly a century of cultural evolution. These distinguished performers, musicians, and creative pioneers — many of them now in their nineties or older — represent a living bridge between the earliest eras of film, television, and music and the constantly changing world of modern entertainment. Their continued presence reminds us that creativity has no age limit and that influence can endure far beyond the period of peak fame.
These icons have not only entertained millions; they have shaped the very foundation of the entertainment industry. Through their work, passion, and longevity, they continue to enrich the global arts scene while offering valuable lessons about resilience, adaptation, and the lasting power of storytelling.
Honoring the Early Trailblazers of Music and Cultural Heritage
For many of these long-standing figures, music has been more than a job — it has been a lifelong mission intertwined with cultural preservation, education, and artistic innovation. One memorable example is the career of Elizabeth Waldo, born in 1918, whose contributions reach far beyond traditional performance. Her work consistently celebrated and documented indigenous musical traditions, protecting sounds and stories that might have otherwise faded over time.
Waldo’s meticulous dedication to recording culturally significant music has made her an important reference point in academic circles, cultural studies, and ethnomusicology. Her efforts show how music can serve not only as entertainment but as a vital archive of history, identity, and human experience. In a world where trends rapidly change, her preservation work stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring cultural roots.
Another notable figure is Ray Anthony, who at 103 remains a distinguished name in the big-band and swing genres. Once a prominent leader during the height of America’s orchestral jazz era, Anthony’s long career provides a vivid window into a period defined by live music, sweeping arrangements, and rich brass harmonies. His continued participation in musical communities, along with his mentorship of younger musicians, ensures that the essence of big-band music remains alive for new generations to appreciate.
Both Waldo and Anthony highlight the immense cultural value of artists who not only perform but also preserve the heritage and techniques of their disciplines. Their work stands as a testament to the idea that artistic contributions can extend far beyond a single lifetime.
Connections to Hollywood’s Golden Age
Hollywood’s rich history is kept alive through the memories and experiences of some of its oldest surviving performers. Among them is Karen Marsh Doll, whose career began during the classic studio system that defined early American cinema. As one of the few remaining figures connected to landmark productions like The Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind, she offers a rare firsthand perspective on the formation of modern filmmaking practices.
Her recollections provide invaluable insights into the studio-driven era of Hollywood — a time when contract players, backlot productions, and carefully orchestrated public images shaped the culture of entertainment. Through interviews, written reflections, and appearances, Doll continues to share stories that help film enthusiasts and scholars better understand the origins of the movie industry as we know it today.
Other Golden Age stars — including June Lockhart, Eva Marie Saint, and Dick Van Dyke — maintain an enduring presence in the public eye. Their careers span decades of film and television history, from black-and-white classics to contemporary streaming productions. These artists are more than entertainers; they are living archives of the industry’s growth.
Dick Van Dyke, known for his infectious humor and musical charm, exemplifies the longevity and adaptability that many performers strive for. His work in film, television, and stage musicals continues to resonate with audiences young and old. His career demonstrates that vibrant creative expression can thrive at any age.
Comedy Legends Who Continue to Bring Joy
Few artistic fields rely as heavily on timing and personal style as comedy, yet several comedy icons have remained highly relevant well into advanced age. Among them are names like Mel Brooks, William Shatner, and Barbara Eden — all of whom continue to connect with audiences through new projects, interviews, and public appearances.
Although the entertainment landscape has shifted dramatically over the decades — moving from broadcast television to cable networks and, eventually, to digital streaming platforms — these performers have skillfully navigated every era of change. Their ability to maintain signature comedic personas while also adapting to modern formats highlights a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Their ongoing involvement in entertainment offers a bridge between classic comedic storytelling and contemporary audience expectations. Younger fans discovering their work for the first time often find that humor, when built on authenticity and personality, truly stands the test of time.
Film Icons in Their Nineties Who Continue to Shape the Silver Screen
Not all enduring entertainers are known for comedy. Some of the world’s most respected dramatic actors — including Clint Eastwood, Sophia Loren, and Michael Caine — continue to influence film well into their nineties.